Morkies Are Full of Energy for Everything They Do
A cross between the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier, the Morkie is a relatively new mixed breed that has been steadily growing in popularity since it was first introduced. Inheriting the best traits of each of its parent breeds, the Morkie is a playful, energetic and affectionate little ball of fur wrapped up in a beautiful, silky coat. Often, they don’t know their own size, acting as alert and effective watchdogs. While they often sport the long, silky coat of the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, they are considered relatively low shedding, making them a great choice for individuals with allergies. Their loving and devoted temperament and small size make them well suited to families with older children and limited living space.
History
Like many of the mixed or cross-breeds, the Morkie originated in the United States. They were first bred in the 1990s in an attempt to find a small companion dog ideal for smaller homes. Their adorable looks, combining a rounded head, dark expressive eyes, and small black nose, as well as their affectionate personality quickly made them one of the more popular new breeds. They can vary in color depending on their parents, ranging from the pure white or cream of the Maltese to the black and tan of the Yorkie. Having a low shedding coat which is suited to those with allergy concerns only increased their popularity even more.
Temperament
As with their physical traits, Morkies also combine personality traits from each of the parent breeds. The result is a loyal, affectionate, playful and social dog who tends to form a strong bond with its family. Sporting a tremendous amount of curiosity and an alert nature, they tend to be very good watchdogs despite their small size and will bark quite a bit at any unidentified noise. They are intelligent and eager to please, meaning they can be easily trained but they do tend to have a bit of a stubborn streak so early training is advised.
Environment
Weighing just 7 to 13 pounds and standing 7 to 10 inches, Morkies are an ideal size for apartment living but their tendency to bark a lot can be an issue, so they’ll need early training to help curb the habit. Their small size makes them easily manageable for single or older owners and their loving nature makes them a good choice for families with older children.
Exercise
Morkies have a moderate amount of energy and generally require about 30 minutes of exercise a day. Usually a short walk is enough to help them burn off energy. They are not well-suited to long periods of exercise so it’s important not to overdo it. Because they are intelligent and curious dogs they also require regular mental stimulation in order to prevent destructive behavior. Toys, treats and puzzles can all help to keep them active and curb chewing and barking.
Grooming
Since they have non-shedding coats, Morkies require regular grooming in order to maintain proper coat health. To avoid tangles and matting, you should brush your Morkie three to four times a week, using a slicker or pin brush and a comb. You should also consider having them professionally groomed about every 6-8 weeks since groomers can more easily handle sensitive areas like the paws and face.
